Efficient prediction of tidal turbine fatigue loading using turbulent onset flow from Large Eddy Simulations

• DOI: 10.1007/s40722-024-00328-y
• Publication Date: 2024-05-08T14:02:26Z
• Authors: Hannah Mullings; Lindsey Amos; Calum Miller; Pablo Ouro; Tim Stallard
• Keywords: Inflow; Tidal power; Large-Eddy Simulation; Detached-Eddy Simulation

Abstract To maximise the availability of power extraction from a tidal stream site, turbines need to be able operate reliably when located within arrays. This requires thorough understanding operating conditions, which include turbulence, velocity shear due bed proximity and roughness, ocean waves upstream turbine wakes, over range flow speeds that contribute loading experienced by devices. High-fidelity models such as Large Eddy Simulation (LES) can used represent these complex conditions device embedded predict loading. However, inform micro-siting multiple with an array, computational cost performing simulations this type is impractical. Unsteady onset generated LES in offline coupling fashion input lower-fidelity load prediction enable computationally efficient array design. In study, in-house Blade Element Momentum (BEM) method assessed for unsteady loads on floating inflow developed solver DOFAS. Load predictions are compared those obtained using same commercial tool Tidal Bladed Actuator Line Model (ALM) solver. Estimates fatigue differ up 3% mean thrust 11% blade root bending moment subject turbulent channel flow. When subjected more flows typical wake, rotor 10%, reduced inclusion pitch controller.